Just Got Engaged? Read this before you book anything!
- Katie Lewis
- Jan 4
- 3 min read
Congratulations! You’ve just said “yes” and the excitement is real. But before you dive headfirst into Pinterest boards, venue tours and well-meaning advice from friends and family, take a moment to pause. A few thoughtful steps at the start can save you stress, money, and those classic “why did we do that?” moments later. Planning a wedding is thrilling, but it can also feel overwhelming. That’s why I’m here to share my top tips for couples who want a wedding that’s personal, joyful, and truly unforgettable.
1. Decide on Your Wedding Vibe
Before booking anything, ask yourself one crucial question: How do we want our wedding to feel?
Relaxed and informal?
Emotional and meaningful?
Full-on party?
Geeky, personal, and completely you?
Your vibe should guide every decision — from venues to decorations to music — not trends, TikTok ideas, or what you “think you should do.” When you know the vibe, choosing a photographer, a celebrant, or even your wedding dress suddenly becomes much easier.
Quick tip: Write down three words that sum up the mood you want for your day. Keep that list visible while planning—it’s your anchor when options start to feel overwhelming.
2. Registrar vs Celebrant
Many couples automatically assume a registrar is their only option and book straight away — but that’s not the case.
Unlike registrars, celebrants bring warmth, personality, and joy to your ceremony.
We craft ceremonies that are completely personal, full of those “that’s so them!” moments your guests will remember forever.
A registrar will do the legal formalities perfectly, but a celebrant can:
Include readings, vows, or rituals meaningful to you
Make the ceremony reflective of your personalities
Keep the energy joyful, warm, and engaging
Do some research before you lock in your officiant. A celebrant might just be the secret ingredient to making your ceremony feel truly special.
3. Talk Money Early
Budget conversations aren’t glamorous—but they’re essential.
Sit down with your partner and discuss what matters most: food, photos, ceremony, or the overall experience? You don’t need every number nailed down, but shared expectations now save a ton of stress later.
Quick tip: Rank your top five priorities. If photography is non-negotiable, you’ll know exactly where to allocate your budget—and where you can be flexible.
4. Find Your People
Your celebrant, photographer band or singer — these are the people who make your wedding truly yours. Look for the vendors who resonate with you, spark joy, and understand your vision. They’ll help your wedding feel personal, authentic, and unforgettable.
Mini tip: When you meet potential vendors, notice who gets excited about your ideas and take time to get to know you and don't just focus on what’s trending. Those are the people you want guiding your day.
Why Your Ceremony Matters
Planning your wedding doesn’t have to be rushed, stressful, or driven by what everyone else thinks you should do. If you slow down, get clear on what matters, and surround yourselves with the right people from the start, everything else falls into place far more easily. Your wedding should feel joyful, meaningful, and unmistakably you - and that starts with making thoughtful choices before you book anything. Take a breath, trust your instincts, and remember: this is your story.
Save, Follow, and Chat!
Planning a wedding can feel like a whirlwind, but taking a few thoughtful steps first will save you headaches later.
♥️ Save this post for later when you start planning.
✨ Follow me for more tips, inspiration, and guidance to make your wedding personal, fun, and unforgettable (click on my insta link below)
💌 And if you’re looking for a celebrant and ready to craft a ceremony that’s uniquely you - let’s chat about how I can help.
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